Where to begin? A new year, a fresh start, a good a time as any. I have not attended to my blog for many months, but I’ve always had the intention of returning. I wanted to share a quick update as to what I’ve been up to lately, before I begin in earnest. The fall flew quickly by and we took a family vacation to Orlando in November. Late November I did something to my back, and the next month was a complete disaster. In brief, this involved one ambulance ride, two separate hospital stays, two weeks in bed (which were a complete blur) and five different drugs. At that point, symptoms worsened and I had emergency back surgery for a severe herniated L5-S1 disc (some of you will remember I had surgery on the same disc 3.5 years ago). There should be little else left to herniate at this point, and I’m about a million times better than I was a month ago. Friends and family helped me tremendously, and I’m eternally grateful for the support I received.

I’m finding myself slightly at loose ends due to the fact that I’ve had to abandon my normal exercise routine (who imagined it possible that one could miss running on the treadmill). I’m looking forward to resuming a rehab focused exercise program this week. Also, Elizabeth is now attending school for full days, so I no longer have a little person at home to entertain every afternoon. She is thriving there, but I’m having a case of last child syndrome. However, this will be an opportunity for me to delve into some new projects and opportunities. I look forward to reconnecting with friends, old and new, near and far, via my blog. Happy New Year!

When I look back on a lifetime of collected incidents and events, there are a few rare moments I can recount in which I learned a significant life lesson. I was reminded of one poignant memory late Wednesday afternoon upon the untimely passing of the brilliant Steve Jobs. Christmas morning, 1983, I was ten years old. By all accounts, I was quite a pleasant child (at that age in any case), fairly well mannered, and appreciative. There was a singular gift that I had specifically asked for that Christmas, The Game of Life. My mother was particularly adapt at gift giving, and I knew that I would find this much anticipated present under the tree. It struck me that there were fewer presents than normal that year, but in all honesty that stemmed far more from my observant nature than greed. Until my seven year old sister opened The Game of Life. I was devastated. I asked her if I would be able to play it with her, and she responded with a defiant “No!”. Then I was angry, furious in fact. Despite the fact that I had received a still generous assortment of presents.

I sat miserable and sulking on Christmas morning. My Dad asked me if I would go to the family room to bring him the TV Guide. I refused. I believe I was outright hostile. He finally coerced me somehow to drag myself to the other room. And there it was, a sparkly new Apple IIe computer, an incredibly generous gift for a terribly ungracious daughter. I was overjoyed, I knew exactly how special this object was. I was an enthusiastic member of the Computer Club at school (where I believe there were a grand total of two Apple IIs), and I knew not a single person who owned one. Years later, my parents shared that they had spent in the realm of $3000, really still an exorbitant sum, even twenty-eight years later. And that they gave my sister The Game of Life (which had originally been intended for me), as her collection of gifts seemed somewhat paltry in comparison.

Today, my Apple Computer remains the most awe inspiring and consequential gift I have ever received. With it came the belief that my parents were investing in my future, the knowledge that their daughters could excel in math and science, and that we were the children of the future. The computer was a beautiful piece of technology and I used it for years. Along with the computer came a couple of stickers, the infamous rainbow striped apple on a clear background. One of those I saved for years, and years, long after the computer itself became obsolete. Today I realize that to me that image symbolized the belief my parents had bestowed in me, and the important life lessons I had learned that fateful Christmas morning. To be gracious in the face of disappointment. In life not everything will be exactly equal, but it will usually be fair.

With one glance at the selection of images I’ve assembled, one may notice that my items don’t necessarily scream fall fashion. A few perhaps, a couple more might be considered transitional, the rest are there just because I like them and it’s nearly autumn. But I digress. I promised a list and this is definitely what I’ve been loving lately. I believe I must be in a neutral phase as very little here could be considered a bold choice. But these nine items very much exemplify my style (with perhaps the exception of the glasses). These are a combination of things I’ve recently acquired and items on my wishlist.

Lace top from Madewell. I purchased this a couple weeks ago and wore it this weekend. Love the grey, love the lace, particularly the weight. It’s feminine without being overtly so. I’m eagerly anticipating the new Alexa Chung for Madewell release on September 22.

Elie Saab, Le Parfum - Just released this August, his first scent. Selected by a couple savvy individuals who are mush better at choosing fragrances than I. I’ve received several compliments on it already. It’s a woodsy floral that is not at all overwhelming. And the bottle is beautiful!

I’m obsessed with everything dark green at the moment, and this dress is no exception. Diane Von Furstenburg creates the most flattering silhouettes and I would love to add this piece to my collection.

Alexander McQueen skull enamel cuff - If there is a piece of jewelry that I gravitate to and wear most often, it is a cuff in any incarnation. I have no idea why that is, but I really have a thing for them. I originally saw this bracelet in nude and mint, but I like the blue and black equally as well.

Super Eyeglasses by Ciccio - I have these in a grey colour, and I’m decidedly on the fence about them. I kind of love the look of them, but not sure they suit me. I have a giant head and glasses are a challenging proposition. I imagine that I will require some semblance of actual glasses in the next few years and I’m attempting to prepare myself. These are my fake, practice glasses for now. I will take a photo of myself in them sometime and post the picture for some feedback. If I can gather the nerve.

Emersonmade Cheetah Print Silk Blouse - I ordered this blouse the very day Emersonmade released their fall 2011 collection. It is gorgeous, in fact I am wearing it at this very moment. It is one of those pieces that you pull out again and again, because it is effortless to wear and pairs well with many things.

Black Balenciaga Moto Jacket - I’ve lusted after this jacket for several years, and hope to eventually make it a reality. May still be wishful thinking, but a girl can definitely dream.

J Crew nude patent loafers - I have a glaring gap in my shoe wardrobe, I own not a pair of loafers or brogues. Definitely going to rectify that for this fall, as they seem so practical for the season. Well maybe a bit less practical in nude patent, but these definitely caught my eye.

The fabulous Sarah over at Prairie Perch asked if I would participate in her guest series “Lovin’ Lately”, while she is away on vacation. Sarah is another Saskatchewan design blogger (we appear to be a bit of a rare species), and we’ve had the opportunity to meet in recent months. I look forward to many more inspiring visits with her in the near future. I was more than thrilled to scope out some items that have been intriguing me most recently. Curiously, most of them fit a similar colour scheme, and I didn’t realize until I pulled them all together in a collage. Take a peek at Sarah’s blog to see the seven objects for the home, that I’m currently smitten with.

Every year, the onset of fall spurs in me a sense of preparation. And by preparation, I mean shopping. To be honest, summer gear is less than inspiring to me, I’m just not a hot weather girl. Autumn is far and away my favourite season, and I’m itching to pull out my favourite boots and sweaters. Though this week’s forecast looks to rival the hottest we’ve experienced all summer, I know all too well how quickly that will change. I have yet to outgrow the compulsive need to procure some shiny new outfits to go back-to-school. That ritual which played out so many times in my youth, I cannot bare to abandon today. For that I can both blame and thank my mother. Curiously, I don’t buy new clothing for my own children at this time of year, I wait until the weather cools a little more.

So in honour of the ritual of back to school, and as an extension of the piece I did for Sarah’s blog, this week I’m going focus on “What I’m Lovin’ Lately”, the fashion edition. Will attempt to write a couple posts this week to give this important topic the attention it fully deserves. To start with, I’m going to share my new bag (ordered, though it has not yet arrived), the PS1 by Proenza Schouler, size large in midnight blue. Does it not look like the most glorious version of a book bag ever created, perfect to take back to school? I’ve been obsessing over this bag for at least a year, and then debated on colour for quite some time more. Cannot wait until it arrives!

Today marked the first official day of school for my two boys, albeit the day wrapped up after a mere forty-five minutes. Our presence was required for registration, and the outlining of the general proceedings for the year to come. As the children savour these fleeting last moments of summer, I cannot help but reflect back on all the first days that have passed. So quickly, too quickly. I’ve undertaken the same slightly unnerving journey seven times now. I wonder how it is possible that I have a child in Grade Five? They don’t need to hold my hand any longer, there is absolutely no trepidation as to what awaits that first day. The only trepidation felt is by myself.

Despite my misgivings, there is also an upside to the beginning of the school year. I will actually have the opportunity to focus on those areas that have been left neglected with several children underfoot. I feel like I have accomplished little this summer, with the exception of corralling numerous children. There were eight children total in my house the other day, they appear to now converge and multiply. Fortunately, Elizabeth’s Montessori program does not begin until next week, so she and I will have an opportunity for a little mother, daughter bonding while her brothers are away. The tasks can wait a few more days.

Speaking of Elizabeth, this morning she consented to a few photos, perched upon my new chair. This marks the third installment in my chair photo series. I ordered this chair eons ago, and after approximately a five month wait, it was delivered on Friday afternoon. The arrival marks the official completion of Project Front Entrance (with the exception of the credenza repair). The chair is indeed the Side Chair by Warren Platner for Knoll, an object I have obsessed over for almost an eternity. I’ve had the Platner coffee table for years, and my love for it has not diminished over time, so I knew the chair would be a fabulous addition to the MCM collection.

I envisioned the placement of this chair at the front entrance next to a credenza, before I actually procured the Baughman piece. And it had to be yellow. Once I get an idea in my head, I am generally unwavering. Knoll offers a tremendous number of fabrics in a spectacular array of colours and patterns. With the exception of yellow, more specifically, a bright yellow. There were I believe a grand total of two fabrics that fit my criteria. And that is how I ended up with a yellow felt. I do adore it, the felt is an interesting contrast to the metal. But I cannot fathom that it will be entirely durable either. Why do I feel like we’ve had this conversation before...

There was a much anticipated event that occurred during my hiatus from the blog, the installation of our driveway. We are closing in on a year in residence here, and only now can we drive into our garage without bringing in a barrage of sand. Of course for the winter months, the lack of driveway mattered barely at all, but its absence grew to a level of irritation as spring turned to summer. The kids too seemed to track in buckets of sand on their feet. Does it multiply somehow? Thankfully the problem is solved for the most part, though the yard is still entirely unlandscaped. Initial progress on those plans is slated to begin in the next couple of weeks.

There was considerable debate as to the style of driveway we should select. We discussed brushed concrete, exposed aggregate, stamped concrete and pavers. Originally, we had settled on the stamped option which would be coloured to work with the exterior. As I have come to realize, very little works out according to plan, and we were unable to get the company we had planned to work with to commit to a timeframe (i.e. this summer, that was imperative). On to the alternate plan, pavers. Initially I shied away from pavers due to the settling issue and the propensity for weed growth in between. After some research I was assured that correct installation can prevent many of these issues. We were slated into the queue for the last week of August.

In the midst of all the insanity that was the second week of August we were notified that the driveway installation would be bumped up. We selected some mid-grey modern style pavers and the driveway was prepped for a few days. All I know this involved several pieces of equipment, bobcats, lots of sand, leveling etc. In addition to being banished from several areas of the house (remember the photoshoot), the children were not allowed in the yard either. The stone layer then asked if I would consider a more traditional style of stone, closer to a cobblestone in a lighter grey. He promised me that I would be much more satisfied with the end result. We trusted his expertise and are thrilled with the final result. The driveway, and walkway up the side of the house are gorgeous. The stones are laid in a random pattern and the slight variation of colour creatives visual interest, yet it does not compete with the overall look of the exterior. This photo gives you a glimpse of the finished driveway.

As you can see there are eavestroughs running along the driveway which will be shuttled underground when the landscaping is underway. The edge of the driveway is currently protected with rafts of cardboard that we hastily installed during the second hailstorm in a week. We learned our lesson during the first storm several days early. An intense storm blew in and washed away some of the edging securing the new driveway. From the image below you can also see the black coating from our shingles covering the driveway. The flashing also endured significant dents due to the hail which was nearing golf ball size in a couple cases. Last but not least, both our cars, took a serious beating from the hail. As you guessed it, they were parked on the street, as we were unable to use the driveway to access the garage as it set (mind you it was also being blocked by large palettes of stone). We have a few insurance claims to deal with on the horizon. But at least we finally have a driveway.

I have finally resurfaced after a surreal past week. The Style at Home photo shoot was really an amazing experience. Erin McLaughlin, the Style at Home Editor, and Virginia MacDonald, the photographer (please check out her portfolio, you will be in awe), are two people I immediately connected with. We discussed style, photography, our lives, their careers and did some serious bonding over a shared love of shoes. What amazed me most was their patient interaction with my daughter Elizabeth. They both genuinely adore children. Elizabeth has now asked numerous times, “When are Erin and Virginia coming to visit us again?”.

I was fairly stressed out and overwhelmed for the two days prior to the shoot, even though Atmosphere handled the majority of the staging (speaking of amazing). Organizing even a few rooms to achieve photo worthiness is not an easy feat. Particularly when said space must continue to be inhabited by three children. I verbally cordoned off several areas, and relegated the children to the basement bathroom, and forced them to eat breakfast in my office (pancakes from McDonalds, couldn’t use the kitchen). So as not to disturb he bedroom, Elizabeth slept on the top bunk in her brother’s bedroom, much to her delight.

I will share some more details soon, but for now I’m just reacquainting myself with normal life. We are also enjoying a rare week at home together as a family, so I’m attempting to limit computer access. I must share a couple images of the gorgeous flower arrangements created by Blossoms. I’m so grateful to Carla, Jill and Dan for their vision in creating these stunning pieces. I’ve never had so many flowers in my home at one time (there were several more that I didn’t photograph), it was kind of surreal. They are now dying which I tend to find a touch depressing, and perhaps the reason I shy away from incorporating fresh flowers in my house.

I’ve not been feeling 100% well this week, thus my sporadic posting. Thank you so much for all the lovely comments about my upcoming Style at Home shoot. I’m nervous with anticipation. In an attempt to banish it from my mind for the moment, let’s focus our attention on fabric samples. My house is often replete with various swatches that are under consideration for the next project. The project in question is the seating component of my family room. If you recall from previous discussions, my existing swan chairs are staying, and I’m leaving them in their vintage condition in a blue/grey Knoll fabric. My pair of Milo Baughman chrome frame chairs (I talk about them as if they are mine, however they still need to be found) will be upholstered in black leather. Confession, I seem to upholster everything in black leather as I have three children, boring but practical.

That leaves a sofa and a pair of chairs. We had decided ages ago on navy velvet for the sofa and have three samples under consideration. Though I love the most lustrous option by Kravat, I will most likely choose the one with less sheen as it appears to be the most indestructible. The original thought was to utilize the same option for the pair of chairs, but as always I’ve been swayed by my enablers wielding beautiful fabric samples. Trevor and Curtis show up at my house one day last week with the Schumacher Chaing Mai Dragon in China Blue. We originally discussed it as the option for accent pillows, though thoughts turned quickly to outfitting the chairs themselves. So bold and dramatic. The decision has yet to be made, but we are all leaning in the same direction. It is the most gorgeous linen, my kids will never be allowed to sit on them. Famous last words...

This selection may not go over well with Elizabeth, as she developed a generalized fear of dragons late last year. She was concerned that they might try to "fire her". This has now evolved into a subject of much entertainment in our family, answering the perennial question, "What do you do when a dragon tries to fire you?". I think he would be spectacular upholstered into a chair (or two).

I glanced at the calender (and by calender I mean iPhone), and was enveloped by a minor wave of panic. Frankly, I had not anticipated such a swift arrival to August. For there is a date that is looming large, and I thought I had at least one more week of preparation. There is an exciting, yet stress inducing event that is scheduled to unfold at our house next week. Style at Home Magazine is coming to photograph our house for a yet to be determined issue of the magazine. Only a select few rooms mind you, if you recall my living room is still outfitted entirely with my outdoor furniture and the basement lounge is nothing more than the Lego assembly headquarters. The kitchen, ensuite and a few other spaces are the primary focus of this endeavour.

Honestly I know very few details as all of this has been facilitated by my amazing interior designers at Atmosphere. As I understand, the shoot will be directed and styled by Style at Home Editor Erin McLaughlin, and photographed by Virginia MacDonald. I’m looking so forward to meeting both of them, as I have long been a fan of Style at Home. I’m humbled by and grateful for this opportunity. I am thrilled that the often overlooked prairies, particularly the beautiful city of Saskatoon will be represented.

To add another layer of anxiety, Trevor and Curtis mentioned a month or two ago, “You know, they will likely want to take your photograph as well”. Now, I have no idea if this is true, but being photographed is not exactly my forte. So I have being mentally pursuing my closet identifying “skinny outfits”, and the leading contender is my favourite Paul Smith dress. I may offer up my adorable and photogenic children in lieu.

At very least, the house will be pretty. Last week, Carla and Jill from Blossoms Florists were here at the house strategizing with Curtis, Trevor and myself what is required for floral arrangements. Now if you live in Saskatoon you will most certainly know the work of the talented people at Blossoms, they are beyond amazing. I fully intend to do an entire post dedicated to all the gorgeous arrangements that will be installed here next week. My house usually looks like three children live here with a hurricane in their wake, but that will hopefully not be the case next Tuesday. Wish me luck and I will keep you updated.

As a small child, a singular location in our small town epitomzed to me complete luxury and glamour. The jewelry store, aptly named Majestic Jewelers, was the one destination I always longed to visit on our somewhat infrequent trips to the local mall. My six year old self begged my parents to just let me browse for a few moments, likely to their utter confusion. One might believe that I was enticed by all the shiny baubles, the sparkly gems, but one would be incorrect (OK, maybe only partially). I was absolutely entranced by the lamp that stood guard on the counter near the cash register. This was no ordinary lamp, this was a fancy domed fiber optic lamp (on a chrome base if I recall), circa 1980. I perceived it to be the paragon of beauty, and was held mesmerized as the colours shifted from green, to pink, to purple, to blue, ad infinitum. I would chastise my younger sister when she dared to touch the brush like surface (I was a super bossy child), but I longed to do the same. Today I imagine it and wonder what the hell was I thinking, it is like the ugly step-sister of the lava lamp.

But the aforementioned lamp comes to mind each time I come across a sputnik sculpture, more frequently now that they have arisen to the top of my accessory wishlist. Though the lamp was a mere half dome, the ones I covet now are a full sphere, with far less prongs and entirely more static than that abomination of my youth. Originally made popular in the sixties by Curtis Jere, they are now cropping up everywhere. Kelly Wearstler recently rendered them in brass, in three sizes and I fell utterly in love. Alas those lie in a realm far beyond my price range and there they shall remain. Jonathan Adler now offers the authentic Curtis Jere reproduction in chrome and at 21” it is the perfect size, particularly if only displaying one. I think I need a sputnik to rest on one of my credenzas. I can only imagine my own children twenty years from now, going on about the most dreadful chrome sculpture they had to endure, growing up.